In tennis, just like in any skilled craft, each stroke you’ve developed is like a unique tool in a toolbox. Each player possesses a distinct set of these tools—various strokes, spins, and tactics—each honed for specific situations on the court.
It’s critical to recognize that, during match play, trying to alter these tools in the heat of the match play is akin to a carpenter attempting to turn a hammer into a saw mid-stroke. This usually leads to mistakes because each tool (or stroke) is designed for specific tasks and has been refined through practice to function optimally in those scenarios.
For example, consider your serve, a foundational tool in your kit. It’s a stroke used to start every point where you have control, and its effectiveness can set the tone for the entire rally.
During a match is not the time to tweak or change the mechanics of your serve. If midway through a game you find yourself dissatisfied with your serving performance, remember that this isn’t the time for fundamental changes. Instead, focus on implementing simple rituals that you’ve practiced, such as bouncing the ball a certain number of times, setting your stance, and visualizing the serve before execution. These rituals create consistency and focus, leveraging your current skills under pressure.
It’s completely natural to feel the urge to adjust when things aren’t going perfectly. However, more often than not, sticking with your well-practiced routines and using the tools you’ve developed will yield better results under match pressure.
If you truly feel that a change is necessary, the appropriate time for this is during the off-season, not during a match. Here, you can spend ample time making adjustments without the immediate pressure of competition. Remember, modifying any fundamental aspect of your stroke will take weeks or months to solidify.
During match play, trust in the tools you have, and try to use them to their fullest potential to get the best out of your game!
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Ladies Badge Team 5 Training
/in BadgeTraining/by RobManly Saturday Ladies Badge Team 5 training.
Ladies Badge Team 5 Training
/in BadgeTraining/by RobManly Saturday Ladies Badge Team 5 training.
Ladies Badge Team 5
/in BadgeTraining/by RobSaturday Ladies Badge | Div 4
Ladies Badge Team 5
/in BadgeTraining/by RobSaturday Ladies Badge | Div 4
Tiebreaks & Swiatek
/in Goss, News/by RobIga Swiatek, currently the world’s top tennis player, just added an exhilarating chapter to her career. She now boasts 20 WTA Tour titles, including four Grand Slams, and has been the world’s top player for over 100 weeks. Recently, she conquered a new milestone—winning a deciding-set tiebreak.
In an epic final against Aryna Sabalenka, the world No 2, Swiatek saved three match points on her way to victory, pushing her head-to-head advantage to 7-3. This was only her third deciding set tiebreak in her professional career, having previously faced tough losses in such scenarios. But this time, in a Masters final no less, she showcased her resilience and tactical prowess.
Swiatek’s knack for turning a slight lead into an unassailable advantage is legendary. Yet, what stood out in this match was her capacity to thrive under intense pressure, a skill she’s had less need to display due to her dominant play style. This victory was a testament to the high caliber of women’s tennis in 2024, making it a phenomenal showcase for fans and a thrilling achievement for Swiatek herself. After the match, she reflected on the experience, noting, “It’s going to give me some wisdom,”—a statement that hints at even greater things to come from this formidable champion.
Manly Ladies Team 5 Excels in Debut Badge Match
/in Whisperer/by RobFantastic work, Manly Ladies Team 5!
You all made an impressive debut in your very first Badge match, clinching a solid 7-1 victory. And on hardcourt, too, which is a very different playing surface compared to what we have in Manly.
Every one of you displayed remarkable skill, executing our doubles strategies flawlessly and hitting some incredible volleys. Our practices definitely paid off! It’s always delightful to score points through skillful plays!
Awesome job, ladies—keep up the great teamwork!
Bede Shines at 2024 JT Premier 250 NSW Age
/in News, Whisperer/by RobCongrats to Bede on clinching 3rd place in both the Boys 16 singles and doubles at the 2024 JT Premier 250 NSW Age at Sydney Olympic Park this week.
Bede knocked out several top-seeded players on his path to the singles semi-finals. He played to his seeding losing to the No 1 seeds in the doubles semi final. Proud dad, Larry commented that Bede had the best volleys on court in the losing doubles result!.
Way to go, Bede! Keep up the great progress!
Ladies Badge Team 5 @ Sydney Uni
/in BadgeTraining/by RobSaturday Ladies Badge | Div 4
Ladies Badge Team 5 Training
/in BadgeTraining/by RobManly Saturday Ladies Badge Team 5 training.
The Importance of Sticking to Your Tools During Match Play
/in Ask the Pro, Whisperer/by RobCrucial Point & Games
/in Ask the Pro, Whisperer/by RobIn tennis, the latter stages of any game and any set, especially from the ninth game onwards, are critically important due to the scoring structure and the psychological dynamics involved. This phase of the set is pivotal for building or maintaining momentum.
And let’s not forget the drama of tiebreakers! And how to handle those pesky negative thoughts!!
We have updated our Psychological Strategy pages to include these key stages and games, ensuring you’re well-prepared for these crucial moments.
The Crucial Fourth Point
The Crucial Ninth Game
Tiebreakers
Thursday Ladies Badge Training Notes 11 Apr
/in Ask the Pro, Whisperer/by Rob